Pullman accepts Chevrons settlement agreement for downtown soil clean up

Pullman's downtown revitalization project, known as Project Downtown Pullman, has reached physical completion with costs totaling over $12. 3 million, slightly exceeding the original budget. During the construction, crews discovered petroleum-contaminated soil, prompting a settlement agreement with Chevron for reimbursement of cleanup costs. Public Works Director Sean Wells confirmed that while construction is complete, crews are still addressing remaining tasks after winter. Interim City Administrator Jeff Elbracht detailed that the budget was affected by change order increases and additional contamination-related expenses.

Various funding sources, such as the American Rescue Plan Act and a Transportation Improvement Board grant, helped finance the project. City officials expressed gratitude to all involved for their efforts on this extensive project, which has been in discussion since 2010. Councilor Nathan Weller emphasized the project's significance as an investment in the future, while other council members called for continued support for downtown businesses. Main Street officially reopened in November, but officials noted that the community must rebuild the habit of visiting the area.